Cross Keys, who had hammered Bridgend 66-5 at the Brewery Field four days earlier, were given a major fright by their plucky opponents in this entertaining match.

Keys had trailed 19-3 in the first half and they looked to be in danger of being overhauled again by the Ravens in a nail-biting finish, but Leon Andrews and his men only secured the victory in the third minute of injury time when outside half Ethan Davies kicked a short-range penalty goal.

But at least Bridgend coach Mike Hook can be encouraged by this far more resolute performance as they prepare to meet Pontypridd in the Swalec Cup final at the Millennium Stadium on Sunday, May 3.

The last time Bridgend reached the cup final was in 1990 when they were beaten 16-10 by Neath, but they lifted the cup in 1979 winning 18-12 against Pontypridd, and in 1980, defeating Swansea 15-9.

Keys did not help themselves by having two players sent to the sin bin; prop Richard Cornock (27 mins) and lock Dan Hodge – making his 150th appearance for the club – in first half injury time. In the second half, Bridgend forwards Cai Lewis and Gavin Bilton also received yellow cards.